In China, the scientist who changed the DNA of the embryo was sentenced to three years in prison

A court in the city of Shenzhen in southern China sentenced the scientist He Jiankui to three years in prison for modifying the human embryo genome and a fine of 3 million yuan (about $ 430 thousand). This was reported by the China Daily newspaper, citing a court decision on Monday, December 30

In November 2018, He Jiancui announced that he had made changes to the embryos of seven couples when they were undergoing reproductive treatment. Only one pregnancy was successful: in November, two twin girls were born with a modified DNA – Lulu and Nana. It was noted that another woman was pregnant and carried a fetus with edited DNA.

Thus, the specialist tried to instill in the born children the ability to resist the spread of HIV and AIDS.

However, the activities of the researcher were criticized by colleagues and authorities in China. Xu Nanping, deputy minister of science and technology of this country, instructed to stop research.

In January 2019, the PRC authorities officially confirmed He Jiankui’s allegations of the birth of genetically modified children and accused him of violating a number of state laws.